Planning Approvals

Planning Approvals

NEPA/SEPA

The University of Washington obtained a Documented Categorical Exclusion (DCE) on September 9, 2013 under both the National Environmental Policy Act and the State Environmental Policy Act for Phase One of the project. The UW has completed documentation that supports DCE status for Phase Two. Out of an abundance of caution and as part of the NEPA review process, UW has completed an Area of Potential Effect report for historic and cultural resources for both phases of the project.

Environmental review and documentation for Phase Two is complete and meets the criteria for Documented Categorical Exclusion. The UW has a high level of confidence in obtaining the Documented Categorical Exclusion. Final approval of the NEPA documentation and DCE status will be completed immediately after award of funds; as a matter of regional and state policy, the placement of the project on the TIP, STIP and formal approval of NEPA documentation and DCE status cannot be completed until funds are awarded. In the meantime, UW has received assurances from PSRC that the project will be placed on the TIP, and STIP, and WSDOT has confirmed that they will formally approve NEPA documentation upon award. All NEPA documentation is available at: uw.edu/bgt/documents/nepa.

Legislative Approvals

No legislative approvals are required for this project. Authorization to execute the BGMC has been granted by the UW Regents and Administration. Both entities have authorized the necessary funding and expressed significant enthusiasm for the project.

State and Local Planning

The early coordinated work associated with the BGMC is included in the Washington Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) and application for inclusion of the entire corridor has been completed with inclusion anticipated prior to notice of award. Additionally, the project is consistent with all other relevant plans including: